Key West sits at the very end of the Overseas Highway — about 160 miles and a world away from Fort Lauderdale. It’s one of the most popular day trips in Florida, and for good reason: turquoise water, Old Town charm, Hemingway’s house, and the famous Southernmost Point. The big question is how to do it: join a guided tour, or drive yourself? This guide covers both, so you can plan the perfect Fort Lauderdale to Key West day trip.
Tour vs. drive: the quick verdict
- Take a tour ($99) if you’d rather relax, skip the 4+ hours of round-trip driving, and let someone else handle logistics. Our Key West day tours from Fort Lauderdale include round-trip transportation for $99 — you just enjoy the ride.
- Drive yourself if you want to stop along the Keys at your own pace and don’t mind ~8 hours of round-trip driving in one day.
For a deep comparison of every option (including the bus), see our guide to getting from Fort Lauderdale to Key West.
Our Key West day tours from Fort Lauderdale
| Tour | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Key West Tour from Fort Lauderdale (Round-Trip Transportation) | $99 | Round-trip transport + a full day in Key West |
| Key West Tour from Hollywood, FL (Round-Trip Transportation) | $99 | Same, with pickup in the Hollywood area |
| Overnight Key West Tour from Ft. Lauderdale | $154 | Two days to explore — see our overnight guide |
What to do with one day in Key West
A single day is enough for the highlights if you plan well:
- Duval Street — the lively heart of Old Town, packed with shops, bars, and cafés.
- The Southernmost Point Buoy — the iconic photo, 90 miles from Cuba.
- The Ernest Hemingway Home — and its famous six-toed cats. (full guide)
- The beaches — from family-friendly to hidden gems. (Key West beaches guide)
- The food — Key lime pie, conch fritters, fresh seafood. (where to eat)
Want a full hour-by-hour plan? See our one day in Key West itinerary.
Why a day trip from Fort Lauderdale works so well
- No Keys hotel needed — you sleep in Fort Lauderdale and still see Key West.
- The drive is the scenery — the Overseas Highway and Seven Mile Bridge are attractions in themselves.
- It’s flexible — go for the day, or stay overnight for more time on the island.
Ready to plan your day trip?
Skip the driving and book a guided day tour with round-trip transportation:
